Formed in 1951, GIS has evolved alongside the changing educational landscape of the nation, reflecting a shared spirit of progress, diversity, and community.

Founded by Mrs Sally Watkins, GIS had its modest beginnings within the serene surroundings of the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur. Starting with only two students, the school embarked on a transformative trajectory that has made it amongst the most celebrated and prestigious British international schools in the region today.

In 1996, when GIS relocated to Mont Kiara the move provided both a new home for the school and also the foundation for a vibrant and engaged community to flourish.

Today, the school’s growth is intertwined with that of its locality. The school has become a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, with a population comprising 35% local students and 65% from around the world.

The evolution of the locality and the school continues. GIS: Reimagined is a project comprising new builds for the main campus; a world-class Sports Complex and underground carpark targeted for completion by 2024. While the primary focus remains on enriching the learning environment for the students, these facilities are expected to be a boon to the community facilitating sporting events and community gatherings, with the carpark improving accessibility and convenience in the area.

GIS has had the same motto since Day 1. “There is More Within You” echoes the school's commitment to unlocking each student's potential and preparing them for a globally connected world. This philosophy, coupled with the dedication of its educators, has led to generations of students achieving remarkable success, both within and outside of academia.

Principal of GIS Simon Mann shares, “Garden International School has always aimed to provide a holistic learning environment where students not only achieve outstanding academic results but grow and develop into adults who will flourish. As students begin their journey with us from a young age, we have the privilege to support them to evolve into leaders who do and will contribute to their communities.”

“Year after year, our students turn their excellent results into top university placements, and what makes us most proud is witnessing them as they return, through our Alumni, as adults that we and their families are proud of ” he adds, referring to the prestigious tertiary placements and their success at university and beyond. At time of print, the school’s 2023 graduates have so far confirmed admissions to Harvard, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL amongst others.

The school’s commitment to excellence extends beyond academics. Mann adds, “We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals who are academically adept and who possess the skills and character required to do well in life.” GIS offers a plethora of extracurricular activities, sports, and initiatives that encourage students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

From engaging in community service projects to participating in international Model United Nations conferences, GIS students are provided with opportunities to grow as global citizens with a deep sense of social responsibility. “Our school’s ethos of fostering a collaborative and compassionate community shapes individuals who are not just book-smart but also empathetic and
proactive,” Mann elaborates.

The success stories of GIS alumni speak for themselves. Many graduates have gone on to excel in diverse fields, as captains of industry and holding positions of influence in enterprise and community.

The spirit of growth extends beyond students to include teachers and parents. The school’s innovative teaching methods are grounded in a heritage of excellence, ensuring that each member of the GIS family undergoes personal development.

This approach has gathered trust and loyalty, with alumni parents like Mac Chung Lyn choosing to send their children to GIS, creating a beautiful cycle of continuity. The Cardiff University graduate and Director and CEO of Nando’s Malaysia and Singapore affirms, “I experienced first-hand the values and education GIS
offers. It’s great to see my three children, Cate, Ciara, and Declan, benefiting from the same enriching environment.”

As Malaysia continues to progress, GIS stand as beacons of growth, echoing the nation's commitment to excellence and transformation. Its journey intertwined with that of Mont Kiara and Malaysia, GIS is a testament to the power of education in shaping both the minds of individuals and the communities they thrive in.

Find out more at Garden International School